England captain Leah Williamson has been ruled out of the Lionesses’ upcoming FIFA Women’s World Cup qualifiers against Spain and Ukraine because of a hamstring injury.
The Arsenal defender had been following a rehabilitation programme in the hope of being fit for the international fixtures. However, the 29-year-old has failed to recover in time and will now miss two crucial matches for Sarina Wiegman’s side.
England face world champions Spain on Friday before hosting Ukraine on 9 June as they continue their push for qualification to the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
Fisk And Baggaley Added To England Squad
Williamson’s absence is a significant setback for England, who sit at the top of their qualifying group after winning all four of their matches. The Lionesses hold a three-point lead over Spain and can secure qualification if they avoid defeat in Friday’s clash.
Liverpool captain Grace Fisk has been called up as Williamson’s replacement, while Brighton goalkeeper Sophie Baggaley joins the squad to provide additional cover.
Manchester City goalkeeper Khiara Keating is unavailable for the Spain fixture as she continues to follow concussion return-to-play protocols. A further assessment will determine whether she can feature against Ukraine next week.
Regular first-choice goalkeeper Hannah Hampton is expected to start between the posts for England.
Williamson has endured a frustrating season with injury problems. Despite leading England to successive European Championship titles in 2022 and 2025, she has started only two Women’s Super League matches this campaign.
The defender also underwent knee surgery following England’s Euro 2025 triumph and has managed just three appearances for her country since returning to action.
England’s squad will assemble at St George’s Park before travelling to Spain later this week for one of their most important matches of the qualification campaign.
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